
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to be an electrifying tournament, featuring the world’s best cricket teams. Starting on February 19, 2025, in Pakistan, the event will see high-stakes encounters that cricket fans worldwide eagerly anticipate. One of the biggest highlights is the legendary India vs Pakistan clash, scheduled for February 23 in Dubai. Here are the top five matches you cannot afford to miss.
- India vs Pakistan is the most anticipated match of the tournament.
- Australia vs England brings the legendary Ashes rivalry to the Champions Trophy.
- India vs Bangladesh is a rising rivalry with unpredictable outcomes.
- Afghanistan vs Australia will be a fight for redemption after their World Cup thriller.
- Pakistan vs New Zealand opens the tournament with a high-stakes clash.
1. India vs Pakistan – The Ultimate Showdown
The rivalry between India and Pakistan is one of the most intense in cricket history. This year, the anticipation is even higher due to India’s decision to play under a hybrid model, competing exclusively in Dubai.
- The match is scheduled for February 23, 2025, at the Dubai International Stadium.
- Both teams have strong squads with explosive batters and world-class bowlers.
- Babar Azam, Virat Kohli, and Shaheen Afridi are key players to watch.
This encounter will be more than just a cricket match—it’s a battle of pride, history, and supremacy.
2. Australia vs England – The Ashes Rivalry Renewed
Cricket’s oldest rivalry returns to the Champions Trophy stage as Australia takes on England in what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
- This high-voltage match will be played on February 22, 2025, at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
- Both teams enter the tournament following recent ODI series losses, making this a crucial fixture.
- Steve Smith, Jos Buttler, and Alex Carey will be key players to watch.
This match will not only impact the Champions Trophy but also set the tone for the upcoming Ashes series later in the year.
3. India vs Bangladesh – A Rising Rivalry
Over the years, India vs Bangladesh has evolved into one of the most closely fought contests in international cricket.
- The match takes place on February 20, 2025, at the Dubai International Stadium.
- India, with their experience, are favorites but will be cautious of Bangladesh’s unpredictability.
- Rohit Sharma, Shakib Al Hasan, and Litton Das are expected to shine.
Bangladesh has a history of upsetting big teams, making this clash one to watch.
4. Afghanistan vs Australia – A Battle for Redemption
This match is special because of their previous ODI clash, where Glenn Maxwell’s historic double century stole victory from Afghanistan.
- Scheduled for February 28, 2025, at Gaddafi Stadium.
- Afghanistan will be looking for revenge and a historic win against the five-time ODI World Cup champions.
- Rashid Khan, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and Travis Head will be key players.
Expect a fierce battle as Afghanistan aims to make history.
5. New Zealand vs Pakistan – The Tournament Opener
The Champions Trophy kicks off with a blockbuster encounter between the hosts Pakistan and New Zealand.
- The opening match is set for February 19, 2025, at the National Bank Stadium, Karachi.
- Pakistan will look to capitalize on home conditions, while New Zealand will aim for a strong start.
- Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi will be Pakistan’s key players.
This match will set the stage for the entire tournament, making it a must-watch event.
Match Schedule – ICC Champions Trophy 2025
Date | Match | Venue |
---|---|---|
19 February | Pakistan v New Zealand | Karachi, Pakistan |
20 February | Bangladesh v India | Dubai |
21 February | Afghanistan v South Africa | Karachi, Pakistan |
22 February | Australia v England | Lahore, Pakistan |
23 February | Pakistan v India | Dubai |
24 February | Bangladesh v New Zealand | Rawalpindi, Pakistan |
25 February | Australia v South Africa | Rawalpindi, Pakistan |
26 February | Afghanistan v England | Lahore, Pakistan |
27 February | Pakistan v Bangladesh | Rawalpindi, Pakistan |
28 February | Afghanistan v Australia | Lahore, Pakistan |
1 March | South Africa v England | Karachi, Pakistan |
2 March | New Zealand v India | Dubai |
4 March | Semi-final 1 | Dubai |
5 March | Semi-final 2 | Lahore, Pakistan |
9 March | Final | Lahore (or Dubai) |
10 March | Reserve day |
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 promises unforgettable cricketing moments. These five matches stand out as the most thrilling encounters, featuring the best players and intense rivalries. Whether you’re a die-hard cricket fan or a casual viewer, these games are must-watch events.
Check out the Champions Trophy Stats